Hailey
4 By 4 Brewing Company, with locations in Springfield and Nixa, Missouri, has proudly earned the Missouri Green Brewery Certification. This award is not just about brewing beer – it’s about caring for the environment, saving resources, and supporting the community.
By achieving this certification, the brewery has shown that it is possible to run a fun, successful business while protecting nature. Their actions inspire other businesses to follow the same path toward sustainability.
Missouri Green Brewery Certification: What It Means
The Missouri Green Brewery Certification is a special program that recognizes breweries making strong efforts to protect the environment. It is managed by two respected organizations:
- Missouri Craft Brewers Guild – which supports and protects independent breweries in the state
- Missouri Association of Manufacturers – which helps improve industries across Missouri
To help breweries achieve this certification, the Ozarks Environmental and Water Resources Institute (OEWRI), part of Missouri State University, provides expert advice and technical support.
To earn this recognition, a brewery must:
- Save energy by using efficient machines and lighting
- Reduce water use without affecting product quality
- Cut waste and improve recycling practices
- Choose sustainable suppliers for ingredients and materials
- Engage with the community to promote green habits
This program is not just about getting an award – it’s about creating a lasting impact on the environment and inspiring others in the craft brewing industry.
4 By 4 Brewing Company’s Green Steps
To get certified, 4 By 4 Brewing Company worked closely with experts from OEWRI and took a series of important steps:
- Measured and reduced water usage – They reviewed how much water they were using and found ways to save without affecting the brewing process.
- Upgraded to energy-efficient equipment – Switching to modern, energy-saving machines helped reduce power consumption.
- Improved waste management – The brewery developed better recycling and waste disposal systems to prevent unnecessary landfill waste.
- Sourced sustainable materials – They chose suppliers who care about the environment and use eco-friendly farming or manufacturing methods.
- Partnered with experts – OEWRI helped them identify areas for improvement and gave them a plan tailored to their operations.
Brewer Mitchell Wilhoit summed it up perfectly:
“Here at 4 By 4 Brewing Company we aim to lead by example in making sustainability as refreshing as the beer we pour.”
Why This Certification Matters
The Missouri Green Brewery Certification is more than just a certificate on the wall. It brings several benefits:
- Public recognition – People now know the brewery is environmentally responsible.
- Expert guidance – The program offers continuous support to keep improving.
- Industry leadership – 4 By 4 Brewing sets a strong example for other breweries.
- Community engagement – Locals can feel proud supporting a green business.
- Eco-friendly image – Customers who value sustainability are more likely to visit and recommend the brewery.
It proves that businesses can be both profitable and planet-friendly.
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Brewery Name | 4 By 4 Brewing Company |
| Locations | Springfield and Nixa, Missouri |
| Certification | Missouri Green Brewery Certification |
| Certification Bodies | Missouri Craft Brewers Guild, Missouri Association of Manufacturers |
| Technical Partner | OEWRI at Missouri State University |
| Key Green Actions | Water use reduction, energy-efficient equipment, waste reduction |
| Benefits | Recognition, guidance, improved sustainability practices |
About the Program Partners
- Missouri Craft Brewers Guild – A nonprofit organization that promotes and protects over 170 independent craft breweries in Missouri.
- Missouri Association of Manufacturers – Established in 1993, this group works to grow and strengthen manufacturing in the state.
- OEWRI Sustainability Program – Helps Missouri companies reduce pollution, waste, and energy use, while also saving money.
What This Means for You
Even if you’re not running a brewery, you can learn a lot from 4 By 4 Brewing Company’s journey:
- Save water – Fix leaky taps, take shorter showers, and only run appliances when full.
- Use energy wisely – Choose energy-efficient appliances and turn off unused lights.
- Reduce waste – Recycle whenever possible and avoid single-use plastics.
- Support sustainable businesses – Buy local and from companies that care about the planet.
- Spread awareness – Encourage friends and family to take small green steps too.
Small changes in everyday life can make a big difference over time.